How to Dress to Impress: First Day of School Outfits Ideas for Highschool Freshmen 2025
The outfit you wear on the first day of school affects your whole year. If you’re in 8th grade or highschool, the right style can make you feel more confident and show your personality. In 2025, fashion will focus on individual style, comfort and still including special occasions.
This year, versatility is key. Ripped jeans and leather leggings are common and there are lots of classic sneakers as well. Everyone has different needs, but having a mix of comfort, usefulness and personal style usually works well. If you like a casual look, try a denim jacket or if you’d like to dress up, try layering your clothes.
All the outfits shown here are inspired by real photos, not made up ideas. Ideas are included for people in highschool, 8th grade and even the first day of school, including outfits for black women and teachers. They are a good choice for when you have to get up early and the temperature in class can change.
We’re going to go through these back to school outfit ideas and help you start 2025 feeling confident and well-dressed. Find your inspo, remix these looks to suit your personality, and make your own back-to-school statement this year!
Ripped Jeans and Tie Front Top 2025
A pair of distressed skinny jeans, a button-front blouse with a tie waist and Adidas sneakers is a great outfit for the first day of school in 2025. A blue shirt gives a casual vibe and ripped jeans and classic shoes give it a highschool atmosphere.
It suits the style of someone in 8th grade, a highschool freshman or a relaxed teacher. It’s practical and lets you move comfortably all day. The knot at the waistline makes the shirt look good and fashionable which is why students like it for dressing up without much effort.
If you’re hot, you can choose jorts or a jean skirt and if it’s cold, add a cardigan. I’ve put on something similar when I’m in a rush and need something comfortable and it always suits me well.
The look shows you’re excited for the year, but you’re still relaxed. Layering bracelets or choosing a unique backpack helps you make this style unique to you. That’s what makes a first day of school outfit perfect.
Cropped Tee and Cargo Jeans Combo 2025
Wearing a cropped floral tee over a white long sleeve and loose cargo jeans, gives a trendy and comfortable look for the first day of school in highschool or college. Sneakers in cream and a small bag make the look light and easy to wear in a busy school.
Anyone who needs a little inspiration in 2025 will love this fit which mixes urban style with softness. The jeans are in style and have plenty of space and the top’s floral touch gives it a fun touch. Layering gives flexibility for unpredictable classroom temperatures.
Looking at this outfit reminds me of when I was in school and played with layers and textures. Using new trends with my usual clothes made school fashion enjoyable for me. A nice bag and clean sneakers finish the outfit and help everything match.
Students who want to look different can choose this style. You can wear this for the first day of school in Stockholm or simply to look relaxed on campus in 2025.
Oversized Denim Jacket with Leggings 2025
When the weather is cool, putting on an oversized denim jacket, a hoodie and black leggings is a classic first day of school look. You can wear chunky sneakers and a large tote to add both function and a sporty look which is great for either highschool or 6th grade.
The idea is to be comfortable and still feel ready to impress others. It’s great when you want to look nice but don’t want to put in much effort. You can take the jacket on or off fast as the weather changes.
Putting on outfits like this gave me confidence to face the new challenges at school. An oversized jacket feels comforting and when you’re shy or cold, you can just sink into it.
It is easy for students and teachers to use the style. Use school colors or trade in your regular shoes for Knu Skool Vans to make it different. This first day of school outfit always looks great in 2025.
Hoodie and Neutral Denim Pairing 2025
A grey hoodie with a denim jacket, black ripped skinny jeans and white sneakers looks great for the first day of school. Because of the high contrast, the outfits stay sharp and are flattering on everyone.
This combo works great for people who are not morning people, because it’s simple but still tastes good. The jacket and hoodie are pale, adding warmth and the black jeans and smart shoes look carefully chosen. I’d choose this for a chill but put-together start.
This style works for students, seniors, and even teachers. Wearing neutral clothes with a little twist such as ripped jeans or bright shoes, helps you add your own touch without going too far. Add a cool bag or watch for extra personality.
It works well for anyone who wants first day of school outfits 2025 with a simple designer vibe. Just right for making a calm, confident entrance.
Camel Sweater and Leather Leggings 2025
Camel sweater, white shirt and faux leather leggings make a stylish choice for the first day of school. Pairing a cozy knit with sleek leggings gives a look that is comfortable and elegant for all ages or grades.
This style is good for both teachers and highschool seniors, but the sneakers and shoulder bag help it remain practical for students. If you want to look confident and cozy, this is your choice.
I use the trick of wearing a crisp shirt underneath a chunky sweater to make my school outfits look better right away. You can change a neutral outfit by adding a scarf or some bold jewelry. This outfit works from classroom to after-school hangouts.
It means fly: simple, flexible and prepared for 2025. The message? You come to learn, but you also come to look your best.
Sporty Windbreaker and Black Leggings 2025
A windbreaker in bright colors and sleek black leggings make a simple and stylish first day of school outfit 2025. This style looks easy and modern and has a fresh touch that is both relaxing and active. Black running sneakers complete the sporty vibe.
If you’re heading to highschool or school for the first time in summer, this outfit is great because it looks nice and feels comfortable all day. A windbreaker gives you shape and leggings make it easy to move all day which is great for walking around campus or the city.
Having this look was always appreciated by me for early mornings or PE days. A windbreaker was like an extra layer of protection when you were running late or the weather was uncertain. Add sunglasses for a touch of mystery and confidence.
It is also perfect for anyone who wants a simple decor. A fun scrunchie, statement watch or cool backpack are great ways to make it your own. If you want to look stylish and functional at the same time on your first day, this is a good choice.
Plaid Overshirt and Hoodie Street Style 2025
Putting on an oversized plaid overshirt over a hoodie is a fresh way to dress for the first day of school in highschool and it’s perfect for fall. Wearing black skinny jeans and crisp white sneakers makes the outfit look both traditional and trendy for the year 2025.
Because it is so relaxed, this outfit is suitable for 7th grade, 8th grade or for teachers who prefer casual clothes. The plaid style hints at street fashion and the hoodie underneath helps keep you warm and cozy all day at school.
I used to be totally obsessed with shackets like this when I was in highschool. They are cozy, much like a favorite blanket, yet the plaid print gives them a bit of flair to make them noticeable. It’s the perfect transitional piece for the school year.
If you want to change the style, you could wear jorts or leggings instead of jeans. You can make the look better by adding a pair of Knu Skool Vans or a designer backpack. You can wear this outfit in any school building, from Stockholm to the DTI campus.
Cropped Top and Plaid Skinny Pants 2025
A black leather jacket, white cropped top and plaid skinny pants are the perfect bold choice for the first day of school. Your outfit shows you are ready to make a big impression when you arrive in 2025.
Seniors or anyone who wants to stand out will love this outfit which is also great for the first day of school or for those who want to look “fly” in the city. The pants are fitted and stylish and white sneakers add a relaxed and smart look for the classroom.
I always felt strong and prepared in a leather jacket. Wearing a plaid piece with it gives it a retro feel which is great for bringing back 80s or 90s fashion with a modern twist. Wear necklaces with different lengths or big earrings to add more style.
People who like to mix comfort and bold outfits will definitely like this look. A graphic tee is an easy way to make your outfit more relaxed and you could also change your sneakers for boots. It can be worn in many ways, is trendy and helps you make a good first impression.
Striped Sweater and Distressed Jeans 2025
A striped sweater, skinny jeans with rips and white sneakers make a great look for the first day of school in 8th grade. The combination of these colors gives warmth, comfort and a bit of playfulness that will suit any middle schooler, especially 7th or 8th graders who want something different.
The big fit of the sweater is warm for fall and the bright stripes add a bit of color without being too noticeable. Ripped jeans give a modern and casual look and the classic white sneakers are always both stylish and comfortable.
For me, wearing oversized knits on the first day made me feel comfortable and confident which was important with all the excitement and nerves of starting a new year. The ripped jeans help avoid a predictable or plain look.
To give it your personal touch, put on a cute bag, a fun hair accessory or bright socks. This style is very simple and looks good on anyone, from preschoolers to highschoolers, giving a youthful and relaxed feel to 2025.
College Crewneck and Mom Jeans Look 2025
Try wearing a bold-letter crewneck sweatshirt tucked into mom jeans for a great idea for your first day of school outfit. The outfit is completed with white sneakers and a black crossbody bag which blend casualness with elegance.
This outfit is perfect for students on the first day of school, college or HBCU or anyone who wants to suggest they are dreaming of university. The relaxed jeans are easy to wear all day and the graphic crewneck adds style and energy from the campus.
At the beginning of highschool, I was eager to find things that helped me feel more prepared for college. A crewneck sweatshirt is always a good choice and tucking it into your jeans makes the look tidy without taking away its casual charm.
Make it your own by picking a sweatshirt that has your school’s name or your favorite city or try out a jean skirt for the summer. This outfit is always in style and makes you feel comfortable when you start class in 2025.
Cream Knit Sweater and Checked Pants 2025
A cream knit sweater with black-and-white checked skinny pants looks elegant for the first day of school. It is a stylish choice for students who want to look good but not too fancy in 2025.
Because it is loose, the sweater gives you comfort and a friendly, easy-going look. The checked pants give this a smart, tailored look which makes it suitable for highschool, teacher or an 8th grader who wants to look stylish. White sneakers keep things practical for all-day wear.
Mixing patterns with soft materials has always been a favorite of mine for school. Such a look works well when you want to feel comfortable and stylish at the same time, especially in early fall. Having a crossbody bag is a good way to carry your most important things.
The look can be made your own by adding some jewelry or a colorful accessory. No matter if you’re a senior or simply looking for a good basic, this idea for a first day of school outfit is always in style.
Argyle Sweater and Wide-Leg Jeans 2025
A white turtleneck, argyle sweater and wide-leg jeans are a perfect outfit for the first day of school in 2025. The mix of old-fashioned style and modern fit makes this suitable for 7th grade or highschool.
Wide-leg jeans are trending for their comfort and style. The argyle pattern gives you a learning look and the turtleneck makes sure you stay warm in the classroom. White sneakers round out this relaxed yet put-together outfit.
Because I always liked vintage school fashion, this outfit reminds me of the crisp air in autumn. The style of the sweater is cropped which makes the outfit modern and the high waist jeans are comfortable and flattering for any body.
Carry a mini backpack or structured tote to make the look your own. Students and teachers will feel confident and scholarly when wearing these first day of school outfits in 2025.
Green Plaid Shacket and Light Jeans 2025
A white tee, light-wash skinny jeans and a green plaid shacket is a simple and relaxed look for the first day of school. It mixes a casual street feel with some polish that is suitable for highschool or college.
With its big size, a shacket can be worn with or without other layers depending on the weather. You can easily wear light jeans and clean white sneakers to school from 7th to senior grade. Sunglasses add extra cool points.
I prefer to wear a lot of layers in the fall and I like to do it especially on the first day. It gives off a relaxed feeling, but it can be pulled together for a school day. A structured bag adds a designer feel to your outfit.
It can be worn on the streets of Stockholm or in the school hallway. Choose a bright lipstick or change your jeans for jorts if it’s a warm day. The overall effect? Totally simple, flexible and perfect for the first day of school in 2025.
Black Hoodie and Ripped Blue Jeans 2025
Picking a black hoodie, torn blue jeans and high-top Converse is a classic and cool choice for the first day of school in high school. It’s really about being comfortable and confident—something you can put on easily but that stands out in the new year.
It suits highschool freshman, 8th grade or college hbcu students very well. With its big fit, a hoodie is comfortable for any day and distressed jeans help keep the style current. Black sneakers ground the whole vibe.
I’ve always appreciated this look for its balance. The hoodie can be worn over other clothes and the jeans prove you’re fashionable. Rolling up your sleeves and adding some retro sunglasses makes the look a little edgy.
This is just the thing for anyone who wants to make a great first impression at school. Add a unique bag or statement earrings or just wear it plain. This is one of the first day of school outfits in 2025 that feels comfortable and familiar with a modern twist.
White Tee, Gray Joggers and Knit Cardigan 2025
A knotted white tee, gray joggers and a loose cardigan are a great choice for a relaxed first day of school look in summer. Wearing white sneakers and a cap makes it casual and the all-black outfit feels fashionable and updated.
This is the best option for people who like comfort and ease—great for 6th grade, preschool and anyone who wants to feel relaxed on the first day. The knit cardigan makes you feel warm when the weather is cool or the air conditioning is on.
I can remember using joggers on my first day after baby, just to make the day feel less overwhelming. Getting a soft tee and sweater on helps you feel more comfortable and their approachable look encourages other people to talk to you.
It suits people who want to be low-key but still look fashionable. A simple way to add some color is with a favorite necklace or a bright nail polish. The first day of school 2025 is all about comfort which is always a good thing.
Graphic Knit Sweater and Kick Flare Jeans 2025
A black graphic sweater and light blue kick flare jeans make a great outfit for the first day of school in 2025. Since the sweater is loose, it’s very comfortable and the cropped denim adds some style and a lot of flexibility.
Finish this easygoing style with chunky sneakers which are great for highschool or first day of school outfits in the summer. Its design is not flashy, but it still shows your character which is perfect for those who want a casual look.
I love outfits like this for their versatility. You can wear a big sweater when it’s chilly outside or in a cold classroom and cropped jeans give your sneakers a chance to stand out. It works equally well at a college hbcu as it does in 7th grade.
Add your own style with several necklaces or by wearing a bright lip color. Wear these outfits for school, whether you are relaxing or moving quickly between classes in 2025.
Denim Jacket Over White Hoodie Look 2025
A white hoodie, black skinny jeans and a light wash denim jacket make a traditional outfit for the first day of high school. The outfit is finished off with crisp white Converse which give it a lasting, effortlessly cool look for 2025.
Movies often show this kind of outfit which is easy to wear, friendly and approachable. The denim and hoodie look is great for all grades, though it really stands out for freshmen in highschool or 8th grade students who want to make a good first impression.
I’ve always loved layering hoodies with denim jackets. It gives you confidence to handle any weather, strong winds or the jitters before your first class. It’s also simple to stay comfortable in any weather by putting on or taking off some layers.
Wearing hoop earrings or a colorful backpack can make your look your own. You can choose designer or something practical and this outfit will always be in style for the first day of school in 2025.
Blue Plaid Shirt and Black Wide-Leg Jeans 2025
This could be a stylish, gender-neutral choice for what to wear on the first day of school in 2025. The outfit is completed by white sneakers which make it comfortable for you to walk around all day.
Plaid shirts make me think of the cool air in fall and starting something new. The oversized style is comfortable and casual which is why students who want to be approachable usually pick it. Wide-leg jeans are modern, relaxed, and easy to wear.
The mask here suggests that we are living in changing times and sometimes, fashion is about being safe as well. You can use a backpack or crossbody bag to carry your books and laptop and they also add a bit of style.
Wear a baseball cap or some rings to change the look. Highschool, college or first day of school outfits black women can wear this outfit if they want something simple, comfortable and fashionable for class.
Brown Sweatshirt and Distressed Mom Jeans 2025
Starting the year in style with first day of school outfits 2025 means wearing a cropped brown logo sweatshirt and high-waisted distressed mom jeans. A pair of white chunky sneakers and a mini bag make the look modern and playful, perfect for those who like casual cool.
If you’re a highschool student, a college sophomore or just want to impress, this is your outfit. The outfit has a rebellious spirit, thanks to the distressed knees and the brown sweatshirt gives it a cozy autumn look.
I always think a graphic sweatshirt is a good choice for the first day of school. You can wear it to early classes comfortably and it’s simple to dress up with accessories. Mom jeans are a favorite from the 90s because they are always cozy and look good.
Change your style by wearing a designer crossbody bag or some eye-catching earrings. If you want to look good “flying” out the door or just need something easy, these outfits will keep you trendy in 2025.
Olive Green Cropped Hoodie and Ripped Jeans 2025
If you want a street style look on the first day of school or just want something new for 2025, try a cropped olive green hoodie and ripped light wash jeans. Tying the outfit together are white sneakers and a quilted chain bag.
This outfit is made for comfort and confidence. The cropped hoodie is modern and stands out and ripped jeans are always a must for highschool, 7th grade or teachers off-duty. Olive green helps brighten your first day.
Whenever I want to be comfortable and noticeable, I pick a hoodie like this. The torn jeans give the outfit a cool look and white sneakers help keep it young and fresh. Having a chic bag brings a touch of sophistication to the casual outfit.
Make your outfit more noticeable by wearing bold jewelry or a colorful nail polish. The first day of school look for 2025 is designed to be both useful, cozy and stylish, so students are ready for anything.
The first day of school is your chance to show your best self and a great outfit helps you do that. Classic denim, cozy knits or trendy outfits are all great choices for the first day and these outfits will make you feel comfortable and confident. Since fashion expresses who you are, feel free to combine, mix and add your personal touch. Got your own first day go-to? Drop a comment below and let’s swap some style inspo for the ultimate back-to-school wardrobe!
